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Today our customers lost a dear old dog. She was in congestive heart failure and quite old. She was rushed in to the vet’s place this morning for treatment.
The Dr. suggested that they go ahead and put her down, but Mrs. ‘Smith’ wanted blood work and anything else they could do. The vet was understandably upset, after all, they don’t want any animal needlessly suffering. Unfortunately it seemed to me that neither party was listening to the other.
The vet had the dog on oxygen so she could breathe more easily, and was upset over the dog’s suffering. Mrs. Smith however was sure that her little dog would rally and could go home with her today.
The doctor seemed surprised when I said that Mrs. Smith just wanted a miracle for her dog. She wasn’t being heartless over her dog’s sufferings. She just wasn’t ready to let go,but when are any of us? I felt that neither client nor doctor was hearing the other. The client didn’t want to hear that there was no hope. The vet heard only “I don’t want her put down.”
I feel that though we listen to each other, we don’t often enough , hear each other. Something to work on, yes?

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.